15+ UNSPOKEN RULES Tourists Always Break in Dublin
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If you wanna avoid making rookie touristic mistakes when exploring Ireland’s capital, then you should familiarise yourself with some of these known yet unspoken rules in Dublin!
Whenever I am in the city, I see visitors break these rules ALL THE TIME, and some of them are not a obvious as you may think!
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1. Buses don’t stop just because someone is waiting at the bus stop!
It can be easy to presume that standing at the bus stop is enough to hitch a ride on Dublin bus but that presumption is a big mistake to make!
In fact, pretty much every time I am in Dublin, I see tourists standing at a bus stop looking confused because the bus driver drove on pass them despite arriving 20 minutes early at the stop.
If you take any rule from this list, let it be this one! You MUST hail the bus as it approaches the stop. To do this, place one hand out towards the road or give the driver a little way as he approaches.
If you want all the everyday Dublin stuff like transport, payment, apps, and getting around explained in one place, my Dublin Practical Pocket Guide pulls it all together without the overwhelm.
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2. If something needs booking, don’t leave it until the day OF
People arrive in Dublin thinking that the city attractions are flexible. That you can just wander up, grab a ticket, and see how the day unfolds. Sometimes you can. More often, you can’t.
A good example of this is the Guinness Storehouse. It is unlikely to completely sell out, but getting a good time slot is harder than people expect, with midday and early afternoon spots usually gone first.
Then there’s Kilmainham Gaol, which is basically like getting Taylor Swift tickets (just as competitive, slightly fewer friendship bracelets). You need to book 28 days in advance if you want to visit.
Even the lesser-known experiences most don’t realise you can do, take the Claddagh Ring Workshop as an example, it only runs on certain days and does have a habit of booking out. And the last thing you want is to miss out on bringing home your own personalised souvenir.
It’s things like this that are worth being prepared for, that’s why I usually recommend having a browse on platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator ahead of time, it lets you see what’s actually possible while you’re in Dublin, check real availability, and lock in a time slot that fits your plans before everything decent is gone.
If you like having the main thing sorted early, booking ahead takes the pressure off and lets the rest of the day fall into place naturally.
And if you’re struggling to decide which attractions are actually right for you, that’s exactly what my one-on-one travel planning calls are for. You can sit down with me as your local guide and we’ll talk through what makes sense for your time in Dublin, or how it fits into a wider Ireland trip, so you’re not booking things just because they’re ‘iconic’.
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Tired of seeing the same generic locations in every Ireland Travel guide? I have just the thing for you!
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3. Traffic lights (for pedestrians) are more so guidelines than rules
Irish people tend to not take traffic lights all too seriously when walking. If the light is red, but there is an opening on the road, then we will walk.
‘Jaywalking’ is very much a done thing in Dublin you are not going to receive a fine for crossing the road without permission.
However, in saying that, it’s not always wise to do as the locals do because the reality is visitors are not used to how our road system works and the last thing you want is to be involved in an accident while on your holidays.
This is one of those moments where having decent travel insurance actually matters, especially in a busy city and I always recommend sorting it before you arrive with comparison tools like VisitorCoverage, so you’re not caught out if something does go wrong.
Don’t assume your phone will just work when you land
This one catches people out all the time, which is why I always recommend setting up an eSIM like Airalo before you fly.
It means you land with data already working, no roaming shock, no airport Wi-Fi scramble, no standing around guessing.
A lot of tourists land in Dublin assuming their phone will just sort itself out, and then suddenly they’re standing in the airport trying to find a bus, directions, or their hotel… with no data.
Roaming charges rack up fast, and Dublin is not the place you want to be guessing without Google Maps. Honestly, having your data sorted before you land makes day one far calmer and saves a lot of unnecessary stress.
If you want the easy option, having an eSIM like Airalo set up in advance is the simplest way to stay connected without worrying about roaming charges or hunting for Wi-Fi when you’re half asleep after a flight.
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4. There are correct ways to use swinging doors in public spaces
If you find yourself in a shopping centre or a public space, it is essential that you check to see if anyone else is following you through a swinging door.
It is my pet peeve when the person before me just let’s the door slam in my face. And if I am being honest, it’s a sure fire way to piss off locals you may meet.
Once you open the door, look behind you and make sure no one else is looking to pass through it. If there is someone, hold the door until they get to it. Don’t let it slam. It’s really rude.
And, on the other hand, if someone holds the door open for you, be sure to grab it from them.
Don't just walk through expecting them to stand there like a personal door-holder.
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Travel insurance feels optional… until it isn’t.
Dublin feels like a safe, modern city, so travel insurance often gets mentally filed under “probably fine without it”. No extreme activities, no chaos planned, just walking around, public transport, and a few day trips.
The thing is, most of the issues that come up here aren’t dramatic. They’re boring, everyday things. Slipping on a wet footpath. Twisting an ankle on cobblestones. Missing a connection because the weather turned, and suddenly everything backed up.
These are exactly the situations people don’t think about until they’re already dealing with them, which is why having travel insurance sorted before you arrive takes a lot of pressure off if something small does go wrong.
It’s not about expecting something to go wrong. It’s about not letting a small hiccup turn into a stressful, expensive one that eats into your time here.
I usually point people towards VisitorsCoverage just as a starting point. It lets you compare policies side by side and see what’s actually good value.
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5. Not all questions need an answer
Ok, so I need to explain this one a little bit. When exploring the city, odd’s are you'll be greeted by a local at some stage.
They will more than likely say something along the lines of, ‘how is it going?’ or ‘how are you doing?’.
When you hear this, the local isn’t really looking for an answer, these statements are more like a greeting rather than an opening to have a conversation.
Now, a conversation may still come from this, but the topic will more than likely not be what you expect. Because these questions are more equivalent to saying hi.
Another common one is ‘how are ya?’ but in the Irish accent it kind of blends into one word, which will sound something like ‘howeya’ depending on where in the country the person is from.
6. Not every “iconic” thing is actually worth queuing for.
Just because something is loud, heavily marketed, or all over social media doesn’t mean it’s automatically the right fit for you.
Some people love ticking off the big names. Others would rather wander, eat well, and avoid standing in a line for an hour. Neither is wrong, but forcing yourself to queue for something you’re not even excited about usually isn’t the best use of your time.
What’s worth it in Dublin is surprisingly personal. What works brilliantly for one visitor can feel like a waste of time for another.
If you’re feeling unsure about what to prioritise or what’s genuinely worth it for your trip style, that’s exactly the kind of thing I help with in my one-on-one travel planning calls.
7. The weather forecast is just a guideline
I’m not entirely certain this qualifies as a “rule,” but here it goes: never, and I mean NEVER, fully trust the weather forecast in Dublin.
This is why I always recommend bringing a lightweight, packable rain jacket, like this one, something you can shove into a day bag and forget about until the sky changes its mind.
Just presume there is a high chance of rain at any point of the day unless you are lucky enough to visit durning one of Ireland rare but stunning heat waves.
Ireland is known for getting 4 seasons in the one day and unfortunately, it is not just a stereotype. So, packing comfortable, weather-proof shoes (like these) matter more than people expect here. Dry feet make a massive difference when you’re walking around Dublin all day.
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8. Everything is only around the corner
When in Dublin, odds are you are going to find yourself stopped asking a local for directions to your next activity or restaurant reservation.
And the problem with that is, pretty much everything in Ireland is ‘only around the corner’.
Let me explain, we Irish like to stretch the truth a little, and if you ask us where something is, we often reply with ‘ah, sure that’s only around the corner’. Sounds convenient, right?
Well, it could mean anything from a brisk 5-minute walk to a 35-minute trek across the city. You never really know.
So, the rule here is, don't just ask for directions. Ask three locals, take an average, then add 15 minutes for good measure! (jokes, kind of).
Or maybe be more direct by asking, “how far of a walk is that?”. You'll probably get a more precise answer… or at least a more creative one!
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9. There are more ‘public’ toilets than you may expect
Now, don't get too excited, but when nature calls unexpectedly, you might have more options than you think.
Contrary to popular belief, you can use the toilets in a nearby pub without having to buy a drink. It's like the golden rule of pub bathrooms: “Come for the toilet, stay for the beer…or not.”
This is one of those everyday things I cover properly in my Dublin Practical Pocket Guide, toilets, water refills, pharmacies, and all the small stuff you don’t want to be scrambling for when you’re out and about.
I've never been stopped doing this, no matter where I am in the country. Of course, it's always nice to buy something small after using the facilities, but honestly, who's keeping track?
RULES TOURISTS ALWAYS BREAK IN DUBLIN YOUTUBE VIDEO
Want to discover more ways tourists break rules in Dublin? Make sure to check out my YouTube video below.
10. You MUST say thank you to the bus driver
In Ireland, not thanking the bus driver is considered as shocking as pouring milk in a mug before the tea bag!
Even since 2020, when Dublin bus started letting passengers out the back door of the busses, you still you will hear 99% of people shout up the bus to thank the bus driver for the journey.
It’s a really lovely touch, a custom I hope we keep forever.
11. The Luas is not free. And yes, they do check.
Legend has it the Luas is free. It’s not.
This is one of those bits of Dublin lore that locals joke about and tourists accidentally believe. There are no ticket barriers, no one shouting instructions, and it all feels a bit… honour system-ish. That’s where people get caught.
Ticket inspectors absolutely do get on. They’re discreet. They’re fast. And they will fine you on the spot if you haven’t tapped on. I see this happen all the time, especially to visitors who genuinely didn’t know.
If you want the easy version, having the right public transport app set up makes the whole thing far less stressful, especially on arrival days when your brain is already fried.
- TFI Live (official journey planner) – real-time departures and route planning across Dublin Bus, Luas, trains & more (iOS/Android)
- Citymapper – all-in-one transit planner – compares buses, trams, walking routes and more
(iOS/Android) - Google Maps – solid fallback if you just want familiar maps + transit info.
- Leap Card app – handy for topping up your leap card on the go (iOS/Android)
- FreeNow – is our main taxi app (iOS/Android), Uber (iOS/Android) does work but we do not have ride share services in Ireland. All taxi's are metred.
This is also where having your data sorted matters, if your phone works the second you land, apps, maps, and tickets are much easier to deal with. An eSIM like Airalo saves a lot of day-one hassle.
It’s also one of those little things that sounds obvious after the fact, but nobody really explains it until it’s too late.
12. Give a little smile if you lock eyes with someone
Ok, so in Ireland, it is common to acknowledge people as you pass them in the street. Just a little nod or smile will suffice.
However, due to the large span of people that travel in and out of Dublin each day, it would be near impossible to greet everyone you come across.
But with that being said, if you do happen to lock eyes with the person facing you, it’s common to give them a little smile and then continue on your way.
This isn’t really a rule, more so a custom, but it is something most Irish people do. Yes, even in Dublin.
13. Umbrellas are for tourists
If there's one thing that separates the locals from the tourists in Dublin, it's the use of umbrellas.
We are basically just used to the rain. If I am being honest, sometimes I don’t even notice it 🤣
Either that or we have somehow evolved to be more waterproof than the average human… or maybe we're just too stubborn to admit we're getting wet!
If it’s raining, we'll usually make a run for it, or shelter in a nearby pub, shop or café till it stops.
Now with that all being said, If the rain is down for the day, then you may see most Irish people rocking an umbrella.
And to be fair, if the rain is properly set in for the day, a sturdy, wind-proof umbrella, like this, does earn its place. But, for your own sake make sure it is not a flimsy one.
Personally, I think a packable lightweight rain jacket, like this one, is far more useful. It’s far more convenient to carry around, and then there's no need to battle with the infamous Irish wind. Which is something tourists rarely take into consideration.
If you want to be sure your are prepared for the Irish weather, I’ve listed all the essentials on my Amazon storefront, rain jackets, bags, and bits that actually cope with wind and sideways rain.
14. Bar service does not exist (for the most part)
Nine times out of ten, when you walk into an Irish bar you order your drink at the bar itself. Table service is quite uncommon to see in Ireland.
I’m not saying it doesn’t happen, you may come across a busboy or girl in pubs that are busier but the rule of thumb is to get your own drinks.
15. Dublin is NOT part of the UK
This one goes without saying, but Dublin is in no way shape or forum part of the United Kingdom.
The Irish fought long and hard for our independence and it is so frustrating to have tourists consistently call us British. We aren't and we don’t take it lightly.
So, let this be a rule, Dublin is part of Ireland. End of, no discussion needed.
16. Hands Off Molly!
Molly Malone, made famous by the Irish folk song that describes the heart-ship of the once local lady.
It is perhaps one of the most iconic statues in Dublin's fair city and a highly visited tourist attraction!
But, there is one STRANGE thing that tourists do to poor Molly, and that is to touch her breasts!
God love her, she’s standing there, working hard selling her cockles and mussels. The last thing she needs is a group of tourists touching her.
Some believe it will bring them good luck, but honestly, it’s just a weird thing to do.
Ah, Molly Malone, the iconic statue of Dublin's fair city. Know from the famous Irish folk song, So, do Molly a favour, and keep your hands to yourself. Remember, she's a lady, not a wishing well!
17. Chicken Fillet Rolls cure all hangovers
If you've partied a bit too hard the night before and find yourself in a battle with a banging hangover, then I have a cure for you.
One thing our supermarkets do right is having a fresh deli counter, filled with some healthy and some not-so-healthy sandwich toppings.
In the morning, if you find yourself a little worse for wear after downing a few pints the night before, stumble your way to the local shop and ask for a hot chicken fillet roll. I promise you will be feeling as good as new after eating it!
Generally speaking, you can add as many toppings as you want (but the price will go up), I recommend some stuffing, cheddar cheese and lettuce 💛
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18. Don’t drive in Dublin unless you genuinely need to.
Honestly, I always recommend avoiding driving in Dublin if you can.
Public transport, walking, and taxis are usually far less stressful, especially if you’re staying centrally. Between one-way systems, bus lanes, trams, cyclists, pedestrians, and roads that were absolutely not designed for modern traffic, city driving here is more hassle than it’s worth.
Most visitors don’t realise that you don’t need a car in Dublin itself. Where a car does make sense is once you’re leaving the city for day trips or heading further afield.
That said, some people do end up bringing a car into the city anyway. Sometimes it’s unavoidable. If that’s you, there are a few things worth being mindful of.
Parking is limited and expensive, and rules change street by street. Bus lanes operate at specific times and are heavily enforced. And if you’re unfamiliar with Irish road markings, it’s very easy to make an innocent mistake and end up with a fine.
Driving in Dublin isn’t impossible. It’s just unnecessarily stressful if you’re not prepared for it.
If you’re hiring a car, I always suggest comparing options through Discover Cars first, especially if you’re planning to pick up outside the city and avoid bringing it in at all.
19. Sunday in Dublin runs on a different clock
Sundays here are quieter, slower, and a little bit softer around the edges.
Mornings start later. Cafés open later. Shops ease into the day rather than throwing the doors open early. Even the city itself feels like it’s taking a breath after the week.
Public transport still runs, but often on reduced or altered schedules, and some attractions keep shorter hours. If you plan Sunday like a regular weekday, you can end up wandering around earlier than anything is actually ready for you.
This catches people out, especially if Sunday is their first full day in the city.
